Directing the personnel search part IV: the on‐site interview

Purpose – This paper's purpose is to outline what goes into a well‐done library personnel on‐site interview. Design/methodology/approach – The paper reviews the need for planning and doing background checks leading up to the onsite interview and then suggests items to consider in both the planning and execution of a well thought‐out onsite visit. Findings – The finding is that planning the onsite interview well is essential to knowing which candidate will work out the best in the long run. Practical implications – Hiring the right person through a well‐thought out process can save time, trouble and expense for years to come. Social implications – All job seekers should be treated with respect remembering that all have been in that position and could be in that position again in the future. Originality/value – The value of the paper is in hiring the right person the first time using a process that is beneficial to everyone involved.